OpTeC Colloquium: Nathan Kuehl/Bryan Scherrer, WA-1500 Wavemeter & Making 3D Maps of Flying Insects

Troubleshooting, Repair and Calibration of Burleigh WA-1500 Wavemeter
Nathan Kuehl, Spectrum Lab, Montana State University

Abstract
The talk will discuss the physics of a wavemeter and the repair of one of Spectrum Lab's Burleigh wavemeters. The wavemeter is designed to measure the absolute wavelength of a CW laser. Mr. Kuehl will discuss the science and significance of this instrument's primary component, the Michelson Interferometer with a moving arm, and the role the interferometer plays in scientific exploration. By comparing the fringe count observed from an unknown input laser to that of a known internal reference laser, the unknown laser's wavelength was determined. He will also discuss fault identification and repair procedures to including the methodology developed for the interferometer's alignment and calibration.

Biosketch
Nathan Kuehl is a research assistant at Montana State University's Spectrum Lab and pursuing an undergraduate degree in physics. He served for six years in the U.S. Air Force as an aerospace maintenance professional and worked on dozens of systems on many different airframes.

Model and Simulation of Wing-Beat Modulation Lidar for Making 3D Maps of Flying Insects
Bryan Scherrer, Department of Electrical Engineering, Montana State University

Abstract
The team designed and modeled the performance of a wing-beat modulation lidar system designed for the 3D mapping of flying insects in ecological and entomological studies. A radiometric model of the system was derived and validated using data from an existing system and then used to predict the range and sensitivity of the new instrument, estimated to have an order of magnitude more range than the current system. Simple full-scale orchard simulations were run to predict the number of insects detected, and two scan patterns are proposed and discussed.

Biosketch
Bryan Scherrer is a research engineer at the Optical Remote Sensor Laboratory at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana. His current work focuses on developing hyperspectral imaging and lidar systems for use in precision agriculture, ecology, and food processing. He received his MS degrees in physics and electrical engineering from Montana State University and is a licensed unmanned aerial system pilot.

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